Thursday, July 21, 2011

Beatin' the Heat - Russ-Stick Style


Last night, as I was winding down for the day, I noticed...
it was 90 degrees inside, and 86 outside.

No air "conditioning" here.  

I wasn't cooling off, and the uncomfortableness was giving way to health concerns.

I decided it was time to take measures.

I grabbed my gear and headed to a homemade swing,


As I laid there, 
reflecting on my day spent in Amish country, I was so grateful for my simple life.

Head propped by pillows, I stared right into the solar system for a conversation with God, 
maker of the universe.  
Before beginning, a falling star set the tone.  
Dear Lord, my Heavenly Father...
The West winds gently rocked the creaky swing back and forth, 
back and forth...

Zip laid by my curled feet, 
every so often lifting her head to sniff the air in quick, short inquisitive gestures.
I dozed, woke, dozed again.  
I had to acclimate myself with the outdoor sounds.
The tapping, scratching of the cable against our flag pole.


Rabbits underfoot nearby.  Hopping, thumping their feet on occasion.  Nibbling.


That's our little "skunk" rabbit...isn't he adorable??

The changing sky...first clear...loaded with stars and the blinking lights of faraway planes.
Then clouds, and cover.
More wind.
Dare I say even cool at times?
Zip jumped up and off the rocking swing several times,
to patrol,
causing the swing to rock abruptly, like a boat being tossed by waves in an unforgiving sea.
But once she returned and settled in by my feet, the gentle rhythm continued.

The rhythm of life.  
Slow and easy.  
Hot and cold.
I must not forget to give thanks...even when life is uncomfortable.

Jesus even did so...

So they took away the stone. 
Then Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me..."
John 11:41
Until tomorrow, God willing.


9 comments:

no spring chicken said...

I just popped over after visiting Cottage Life On Pilgrim's Farm. Your blog is stunning. I spent awhile going through your previous posts and enjoyed every moment. I live in a small town in the middle of not much, right in the center of town. My farmgirl heart loves dreaming about property, so I play with what I have... sigh. Actually, God is SO gracious and my life is rich and full. But, I still enjoy dreaming...

Blessings, Debbie

Edward said...

Sounds like a nice way to spend some time, and the rabbits are so sweet.
Regards
Edward

~mel said...

What an awesome swing!!! I loved your post ~ you sound so relaxed.

OurCrazyFarm said...

Aaahhhhhh! I feel renewed and refreshed just reading these words Sherry:))

~Kim at Golden Pines~ said...

sigh.....what a nice evening....

Dreaming said...

Lovely post. Love the skunk rabbit!

Sherry Sutherby http://russ-stickacres.blogspot.com/ said...

Thank you dear friends. I absolutely love that "skunk" rabbit too! Look for more pics soon. And welcome Debbie from "No Spring Chicken". I will be spending more time on your Blog as the day dictates...~:) It was a restful solution to an uncomfortable situation. However, I'm so glad I could sleep inside last night for some uninterrupted zzzzz's. :) And thank you Mel ~ I'll let Russ know you liked his swing.

Walk In Truth said...

Hi Sherry,

That is a very nice swing, and spending time alone with God is priceless. AMEN!

God bless you
~Michele

Saloma Miller Furlong said...

There is no better feeling than being close to God by being close to Nature. Thanks for the imagery... so nice.

Saloma